Dickens & Rumi
Cover of The Call of the Wild

film

The Call of the Wild

2020

Buck is a big-hearted dog whose blissful domestic life is turned upside down when he is suddenly uprooted from his California home and transplanted to the exotic wilds of the Yukon during the Gold Rush of the 1890s. As the newest rookie on a mail delivery dog sled team—and later its leader—Buck experiences the adventure of a lifetime, ultimately finding his true place in the world and becoming his own master.

Ages 8+Source checked

Why this age? PG adventure content includes animal peril and fights, threatening wilderness scenes, some deaths, mild language, and emotionally intense moments; younger children may need reassurance. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age8+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character3/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Violence3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Kindness & empathy4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

The film is based on a classic novel and includes ordinary period goods, but it does not strongly promote products or brands.

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

Characters, including dogs, perish during the journey. The death of the main human companion is poignant.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional scenes of mild injury or blood from fights, but never graphic.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild language; limited to rare exclamations.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Not applicable to this story.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

The intense wilderness conditions and predatory animals create moments of suspense and danger.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Depicts period-accurate alcohol consumption by adults in bars or social settings.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Includes scenes of dogs fighting, being struck by abusive owners, and natural peril in the harsh wilderness.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Buck and other characters repeatedly face danger and hardship, with bravery linked to loyalty, perseverance, and protecting others.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Highlights the inventive use of CGI to bring a central animal performance to life.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Includes minor diverse representation in the Alaskan frontier setting.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Provides a sense of historical setting (Gold Rush) and literary appreciation.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Empathy between human and animal is a core emotional pillar.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes affirm loyalty, compassion, resilience, freedom, responsible leadership, and finding belonging while resisting cruelty and exploitation.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist shows great perseverance; John Thornton displays empathy toward animals.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in The Call of the Wild would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in The Call of the Wild, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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